SFReview
photo credit: Alanna Hale
Souvla
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Souvla is fast-casual royalty. If they had a castle, their throne would be made up of cups of frozen yogurt, and the walls would be constructed of fat, juicy chickens that spin on rotisseries endlessly. Unfortunately, no such castle exists, but you can—and should—go to this Greek spot for excellent wraps and salads.
Souvla helped to popularize the fast-casual concept in SF when it first opened in Hayes Valley in 2014. They’ve since expanded with multiple locations across the city, and also gained a following so loyal one couple literally got engaged on one of their back patios. We attribute this mildly cult-like following to many things, the first being that the food is really good. Another is that a meal at Souvla has range—you can come here for a date and stay a while with their fun selection of Greek wines, or just swing by for a quick lunch to-go.
Ordering is a simple choose-your-own-adventure type of deal here. In terms of mains, you can either go salad or wrap, and get them with vegetables, or one of three meats: lamb, pork, and the aforementioned rotisserie chicken. All the proteins are flavorful and well-cooked. One non-negotiable, though, is ending your meal with a cup of not-too-sweet frozen Greek yogurt. It’s perfectly tangy, and so thick that you could hold it upside down and it wouldn’t fall out. Make sure it’s topped with honey-soaked baklava crumbles.
Souvla is usually packed with families, friends grabbing a midweek lunch, and people dressed in every matching athleisure set you could imagine. Make your way to the register, order, join them with your big spread, and enjoy. After all, you’re in the presence of fast-casual greatness.